Tesco has ramped up its efforts to tackle climate change by committing to net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2050. This includes those generated by the products it sells and across its supply chains.
The new commitment was announced alongside a new group-wide net-zero target of 2035 for its own operations, bringing it into line with its UK ambition.
Often referred to as Scope 3 emissions, Tesco’s 2050 target covers not just the carbon generated from its own operations but by food producers, suppliers and other partners involved in the value chain. And it will also cover the use of Tesco products, including food waste and people’s dietary choices.
Tesco highlighted those emissions from its products and supply chain make up more than 90% of the company’s total emissions footprint. 100 of its largest suppliers have already reduced manufacturing emissions by 20%. The retailer said it has today written to all its suppliers to ask for their support in the transition to a low carbon economy.
Over the next 12 months, Tesco will set out a plan for achieving its new targets, including how it will decarbonise key emissions areas, such as agriculture.
Activities will include supporting suppliers to establish a net-zero target and accelerating operational decarbonisation across emissions hotspots such as refrigeration, heating and transport. It will also trial innovations with suppliers to reduce emissions from agriculture, including the use of low-carbon fertiliser and alternative animal feed such as insect meal.
Meanwhile, efforts to cut emissions associated with consumer’s diets will include increasing the sales of plant-based products.
“In this critical year for tackling climate change, it’s right that we set out this ambitious commitment to cut emissions across our entire value chain,” said Tesco Group CEO, Ken Murphy.
“We don’t yet have all the answers and we’ll need support from our suppliers and wider society to meet our targets, but it’s vital we take action now.”
Tesco’s Chief Product Officer, Ashwin Prasad added: “Emissions from our supply chains and the use of our products account for most of our emissions. It’s vital we continue the good work in our own operations but also drive collective action with our suppliers to achieve these new commitments.
“We’re encouraged that 100 of Tesco’s largest suppliers have already reduced manufacturing emissions by 20%, but we know we all have further to go. Which is why today I have written to all Tesco suppliers to ask for their support in the transition to a low carbon economy.”
